Thai airlines urged to increase flights during New Year holidays
Civil Aviation Authority meets airlines officials to discuss safety
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has urged Thai airlines to increase the number of flights, routes, seats on board, as well as extend the flight periods during New Year holidays to cope with an anticipated surge in air travel.
The authority on Wednesday held a meeting with representatives from Thai Airways International Plc, the Thai Airlines Association (TAA), Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT), and the Department of Airports (DOA) to discuss measures to ensure air travel safety during the New Year holidays.
TAA comprises five airlines namely Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet.
The CAAT said it would be monitoring air ticket prices for flights during December 28-29 and January 1-2, when increased air travel is expected, to prevent any unfair price adjustment.
It also asked the AOT and the DOA to extend opening hours of all commercial airports during the said period to ensure that no passengers are stranded at airports.
After the meeting, CAAT deputy director Sarun Benjanirat advised air travellers to book tickets at least 2-3 months before travelling during the high season to pay a lower price.
Passengers of domestic flights can check the CAAT’s price ceiling based on destination at this website: https://www.caat.or.th/th/archives/36895
He also urged airport users to arrive early and allow adequate time for safety inspection and check-in processes, which are expected to take longer during New Year holidays due to a spike in passengers.
Sarun said that in case of flight delays, the airlines must provide appropriate compensation as per CAAT regulations. This includes food and beverage or coupons for an over two-hour delay, plus accommodation for an over-three-hour delay.
In case of a delay exceeding five hours, passengers are entitled to a full refund on the ticket or a free flight reschedule to the same destination, he added.
